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What are the best Iceland SIM cards in 2025?
This guide dives into the best SIM cards and eSIMs to keep you online while chasing those epic views.
Iceland is the land of breathtaking glaciers, steaming hot springs, and mesmerizing northern lights. Whether you’re driving the iconic Ring Road, exploring black sand beaches, or scouting for puffins along the coast, staying connected to the internet is a travel essential.
From using Google Maps to plan your next stop to booking tours or keeping in touch with loved ones back home, a reliable Iceland SIM card ensures you’re always prepared.
This guide covers the top SIM card options, their features, pricing, and plans, where to buy them. We’ll also dive into eSIMs — a hassle-free, instant way to stay connected without swapping physical cards.
Stay online, not in line
Where to buy a SIM card in Iceland?
To buy a physical SIM card for a local Icelandic provider, you’ll typically need to get it in person. This is because none of Iceland’s main providers—Síminn, Vodafone, or Nova—deliver SIM cards internationally.
However, SIM cards in Iceland are designed with tourists in mind, so you won’t need any local verification or residency to purchase one. Here’s where you can find them:
- Keflavík International Airport: SIM cards from providers like Síminn and Vodafone are available at stores such as 10-11, Elko, or the lime green convenience store located just after customs. This is a convenient option for connecting as soon as you land.
- Retail stores in cities and towns: Providers like Síminn, Vodafone, and Nova sell their SIM cards at locations such as Smáralind Mall in Kópavogur, Kringlan Mall in Reykjavík, and Glerártorg Mall in Akureyri. Smaller towns like Selfoss, Egilsstaðir, and Stykkishólmur also have SIM cards available at post offices.
- Partner convenience stores and petrol stations: Vodafone SIM cards can be purchased in 10-11 shops and N1 petrol stations, making them accessible even in smaller towns.
- Onboard Icelandair flights: Vodafone offers a premium starter pack you can purchase during your flight, allowing you to connect immediately upon landing.
While some third-party retailers, such as SimCorner, claim to deliver Iceland SIM cards internationally (including to the UK), these often come with higher prices and longer wait times. It’s typically best to buy directly from an Icelandic provider once you’re there.
We’ll cover each of these locations for every SIM provider in detail later in the article.
Is it worth getting a SIM card in Iceland?
Yes, having data in Iceland is a must!! Iceland isn’t where you want to miss out because you’re hunting for a café with decent WiFi. Only by staying connected can you make the most of maps, reviews, and all those unmissable snaps.
But let’s not overlook eSIMs — they’re fast, easy, and just as handy for your Icelandic adventure. (We’ll cover eSIMs in more detail later!)
What is the best SIM card for Iceland?
Finding the best SIM card for Iceland starts with deciding what you want. Are you on the lookout for strong network coverage, affordable data plans, or quick top-up options?
Let’s break down the best choices to keep you connected.
Síminn
Síminn is Iceland’s largest and oldest telecommunications company, with a rich history dating back to 1906.
Síminn offers a range of prepaid plans for tourists, designed to suit various needs. Here’s a breakdown of the available options:
- Top-up (ISK 500-5,000): Pay-as-you-go credit that can be used for domestic calls, texts, and data, as well as international calls. Perfect for light or occasional use.
- Þrenna prepaid plan (ISK 2,900-3,900): Includes 10-25 GB of data, unlimited texts, and calls. Note: This plan requires an Icelandic identification number (Kennitala) to activate.
- Mobile internet data (ISK 800-5,800): Offers 500 MB-50 GB of data to use in Iceland and across the European Economic Area (EEA). Great for heavy data users or those traveling across Europe.
You can order a prepaid SIM card directly from Síminn’s website and have it delivered to your hotel or accommodation in Iceland. However, international shipping is not available for prepaid SIM cards.
Where can you buy a Síminn card?
- Keflavík International Airport, at the lime green convenience store located on the right side just after exiting customs in the arrivals area
- Retail stores like Smáralind (Hagasmára 1, Kópavogur) and Akureyri (Strandgata 3)
- South Iceland: Post offices in Selfoss, Vestmannaeyjar, and more
- North Iceland: Kaupfélag Skagfjörður in Sauðárkrókur, Raffo in Siglufjörður
- West Iceland: Post offices in Akranes, Borgarnes, Stykkishólmur
- East Iceland: Post offices in Egilsstaðir, Reyðarfjörður, Höfn
Vodafone
Vodafone Iceland is a leading telecom provider offering extensive 4G coverage and a range of services for locals and visitors.
It offers local prepaid SIM cards with:
- Prepaid Mobile Internet Starter Kit for ISK 1,790 (~$13.12) with 3 GB data
After using the initial data, you can top up with the following options:
- 10 GB: ISK 3,190 (~$23.38)
- 25 GB: ISK 5,190 (~$38.04)
- 50 GB: ISK 6,190 (~$45.37)
- 150 GB: ISK 8,190 (~$60.04)
Where can you buy a Vodafone SIM card?
- At Keflavík Airport, in the 10-11 shop or Elko store
- Partner locations like 10-11 convenience stores, N1 petrol stations, and tourist centers
- Vodafone stores in Reykjavík, Kópavogur (Smáralind Mall), and Akureyri (Glerártorg Mall)
- Online from the Vodafone Iceland website (with international shipping) or third-party providers like SimOptions
- If you’re flying with Icelandair, you can purchase a Vodafone premium starter pack during your flight to Iceland.
Nova Iceland
Nova is a popular telecom provider in Iceland, offering affordable mobile internet packages with unlimited calls and SMS in Iceland and the EEA.
Its plans are flexible, making it a great choice for both local and international connectivity.
Nova’s plans include two key components:
- Total data allowance: The full amount of data you can use, mainly in Iceland.
- Data for abroad: A portion of the total data specifically allocated for use within the EEA.
For example, if a plan offers 10 GB, you can use 5 GB of that in the EEA, while the rest is for use in Iceland. This balance ensures you have reliable connectivity both locally and abroad.
Nova offers the following internet-only packages:
- 100 MB: Entire 100 MB usable in Iceland and EEA for 590 ISK (~$4)
- 5 GB: Total 5 GB, with 3 GB usable in the EEA. Additional data in Europe is charged at 0.33 ISK/MB for 1,290 ISK (~$9)
- 10 GB: Total 10 GB, with 5 GB usable in the EEA for 2,590 ISK (~$18)
- 100 GB: Total 100 GB, with 16 GB usable in the EEA for 5,590 ISK (~$39)
- 250 GB: Total 250 GB, with 22 GB usable in the EEA for 7,590 ISK (~$53)
Where can you buy a Nova Iceland SIM card?
It’s important to note that you can buy Nova SIM cards only in Iceland in the following locations:
- Lágmúli, Reykjavík
- Kjarninn, Selfoss
- Kringlan Mall, Reykjavík
- Glerártorg Mall, Akureyri
- Smáralind Mall, Kópavogur
How to buy a SIM card in Iceland
With so many options to choose from, choosing the right SIM card for your trip can be tricky. Each caters to different needs with varying plans and locations. So, how do you actually buy one without the hassle?
Let’s break it down step by step.
1. Choose a provider
Start by deciding which provider suits your needs. Consider factors like coverage, data plans, and where you’ll be traveling in Iceland.
For remote regions, Síminn offers the widest coverage, while Vodafone and Nova provide competitive data plans for urban areas and European travel.
2. Select a plan
Next, pick a plan that matches your data, calls, and SMS needs. Providers offer prepaid plans with varying data allowances and international calling options.
For example, if you need coverage in multiple European countries, look for plans with EEA-friendly data.
3. Request a SIM card
Once you’ve chosen a provider and a plan, purchase a SIM card at their stores, partner locations, or online.
Providers like Síminn and Vodafone have outlets at Keflavík Airport, while Nova offers options at popular malls. There’s no lengthy process—just pick your plan, pay, and you’re ready to go.
| 💡Tip: Your phone must be unlocked to use a local SIM card in Iceland. If it’s locked, it will only work with your home provider. Check with your phone company to unlock it before your trip. |
4. Install and activate the SIM card
Insert the SIM card into your phone’s SIM card slot. Most physical SIM cards activate automatically once inserted.
If required, you might need to enter a PIN provided in the SIM card packaging. If you face any issues, contact the provider’s customer support or visit their website for guidance.
5. Check connectivity
Once your SIM card is installed and activated, test the connection. Open a website, use a map app, or make a call to ensure everything works.
If you’re having issues with mobile data or calls, double-check your phone’s network settings or contact the provider for support. This step is crucial, especially if you’re heading to remote areas where you’ll rely on the network.
Holafly eSIM: The best choice for your Iceland trip
An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is the all-digital future of mobile connectivity. Forget about plastic SIM cards, always-forgotten-at-home SIM ejector tools, lost SIM trays, and the unbearable process of switching SIMs in an airport abroad. Instead, enjoy:
- Convenience: You download and activate a mobile plan directly on your phone.
- Ease of use: Scan a QR code to install your eSIM.
- Uninterrupted connectivity: With Holafly’s eSIM for Iceland, you get unlimited data for constant browsing, streaming, and navigation.
- Shared connection: You can share up to 500 MB per day as a hotspot to keep your travel companions connected.
- Extensive network coverage: With reliable coverage across cities like Reykjavík, Akureyri, and Vík, powered by Orange, Holafly ensures a smooth online experience.
- Flexible and customizable plans: Customize your plan based on your stay. Prices start at just $6.90 for one day and drop to as low as $1.55 per day for a 90-day plan.
How much does Holafly’s Iceland eSIM cost?
All of Holafly’s eSIM plans come with unlimited data and no data caps. Plus Holafly’s eSIM allows you to share 500 MB of data per day via hotspot, perfect for connecting your other devices or helping out a friend. Here’s a quick look at the data-only plans:
| Days of use | Price (USD) | Price per day |
| 1 | $6.90 | – |
| 3 | $12.90 | $4.30 |
| 5 | $20.90 | $4.18 |
| 10 | $36.90 | $3.69 |
| 15 | $50.90 | $3.39 |
| 20 | $61.90 | $3.09 |
| 30 | $74.90 | $2.50 |
| 60 | $106.90 | $1.78 |
| 90 | $139.90 | $1.55 |
Enjoy your Iceland trip with the right eSIM in your pocket
Staying connected in Iceland depends on what works best for you. If convenience and flexibility are what you’re after, choose an eSIM.
Holafly eSIMs make staying connected simple. With unlimited data and setup in under five minutes, you can skip the lines and get connected to the internet right away!
Just scan the QR code and activate it when you land. Plus, Holafly covers over 200 destinations, so if Iceland is just the start of your adventure, you won’t need to juggle multiple SIM cards as you explore other countries.
Stay online, not in line
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Based in Mumbai, Sharan Kaur Phillora has 6+ years of experience in the B2B writing industry. She has written for brands like Pocket52, Nexweave, Maze, NaNLABS, and Userpilot. When she's not working, Sharan can be found immersed in murder mystery novels or exploring Mumbai's streets on her bicycle in search of the perfect slice of pizza.
